Landing a dream job is SO exciting. But, what if it’s not the right fit?
Now you’d be taking a guilt trip and would be accepting that offer.
While most people would generally suggest you accept that offer (considering the inflation, job search challenges, etc.), you know that you must NOT accept it. You feel it is wrong in your gut.
And that’s precisely WHY you are here today.
You see, over 17.3% of job offers in the US are declined by job seekers.
That’s right, one in six job offers gets turned down in the US.
However, this should not be done in a way that offends the recruiter. While there may be 101 reasons to decline the job offer, you must stay POLITE and PROFESSIONAL.
Confused?
Let’s walk you through this!
Key Takeaways
- Declining a job offer does NOT have to be stressful.
- You must maintain your professionalism, keep the door open for future opportunities, and walk through this common career hurdle gracefully.
- Read on to find relevant samples, templates, examples, and personalized TIPS on how to decline a job offer.
Importance of Declining a Job Offer Professionally
Turning down your current job offer for which you once burnt your midnight oils to clear every round can be heartbreaking.
In fact, declining it becomes a battle because there was a time when you assured them how passionate you were!
BUT, you must.
And that too, professionally.
Learning to say ‘no’ is not easy. However, declining the offer graciously prevents you from burning the bridge that might bring you multiple opportunities.
Your polite approach helps you stay connected with the recruiter who might even bring you a better option later.
Moreover, who knows if a better offer in the future can pull you to this company again?
Would they like to entertain a rude professional?
Most importantly, even if you didn’t like the job, remember they found YOU fit for it. So, an attitude of gratitude is a must while declining their offer.
Bonus: If you are aiming for a more aligned opportunity, check out how to pursue a career at innovative companies like Tesla.
Consequences of Not Knowing How to Respectfully Decline a Job Offer
This is a weird psychological fact.
But, when you’re in demand, your ego might instigate you to decline a job you don’t want to pursue; unprofessionally. However, the key is NOT to feed your ego here.
In case you do, here’s what you can face:
- A Tarnished Reputation: Unprofessional behavior can destroy your image in a matter of seconds. What if the hiring manager turns out to be a friend of your future boss whom you turned down rudely?
- Ethical/Legal Issues: Your single miscommunication or rude gesture can lead you to face legal complications. You might even face charges against ethical issues. Hence, best case scenario, always act MATURELY, no matter the situation and circumstances.
- Negative Impact on Social Media: There is no end to sharing thoughts via social media platforms. Your single mistake can make you the hot topic of discussion. Your recruiter may even start mentioning you as an example of unprofessionalism. Obviously, you wouldn’t want that!
- Lost Chances of Recommendations and Referrals: On failing to handle the situation gracefully, you have a huge chance of losing opportunities. Opportunities like your hiring manager recommending you to another company that might meet your EXACT requirements. This is why you must mention genuine reasons for declining the offer.
- Low-Self Esteem: Handling a declining offer poorly can lead to personal regrets. This can further pull you back from approaching the company in the future, as you lose your cool in maintaining a positive connection.
How to Politely Decline a Job Offer?
Politeness is NEVER out of vogue.
So, make sure you’re polite enough while declining the job offer.
The moment you have firmly decided to not go for this job, make a prompt communication with the recruiter. Communicate with heartfelt gratitude for considering yourself fit for the position.
Moreover, make sure to provide them with a brief and honest reason for not accepting the offer.
Let your language and tone be filled with gentleness and professionalism.
BE honest YET tactful.
You must convince the recruiter why you can’t go for the job role.
Additionally, don’t miss out on keeping the doors open and expressing your interest to stay connected with the company.
Steps to Take Before Declining a Job Offer
Listed below are some effective steps that can guide you through the process of declining a job offer.
- Step 1: Review the offer letter thoroughly. This is to know what the company will offer you. Make sure to pick up those areas and understand the loopholes that are influencing you to decline the offer. Adding to this, also look into the perks for which you can come back in the future.
- Step 2: Go through a thorough self-introspection. This is to analyze why you’re willing to decline the offer in the first place. Aim to pick out enough reasons that are valid enough to discuss.
- Step 3: At this stage, you need to prepare your response. Decide what medium you’re going to choose for responding (based on the company’s norms). Although a phone call can be the most excellent way of communicating, a polite email works wonders too!
- Step 4: Prepare for follow-up questions after your phone call or message. Always stay prepared here. Questions WILL appear from the other side. Hence, you must respond in brief, wrapped in humbleness.
- Step 5: If you are unsure, try seeking advice from experienced professionals who can guide you through this process. An experienced professional can help you show a better approach to communication with the recruiter.
How to Decline a Job Offer Via Email?
Declining a job offer via email is indeed the most efficient and respectful way to communicate your decision.
However, curating a thoughtful email calls for clarity and professionalism. It helps you maintain a positive relationship with the employer.
In a nutshell, the key is to express gratitude.
In fact, email is particularly effective as it provides a written record of your communication.
Eventually, it allows the employer to PROCESS your decision on their own time.
Best part?
It avoids the potential discomfort of a direct conversation. Here are a few tips to nail it!
- Be Prompt: Make sure you respond as soon as you’ve made your decision.
- Use a Clear Subject Line: Make it straightforward. Eg: “Job Offer Decline- (Your Name)”
- Express Gratitude: Thank the employer for the offer and their time
- Always Leave the Door Open: Ensure mentioning your interest in future opportunities with the company.
After sharing these valuable tips, it’s time to put them into action.
Here’s a thoughtful email example that not only helps you respectfully decline the offer but also keeps the door open for future opportunities:
Subject: Job Offer Decline – [Your Name]
Email Body:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. I greatly appreciate the time and effort invested by you and your team during the interview process. After careful consideration, I have decided to decline the offer as I believe this role may not be the best fit for my current career goals.
Please know this decision was not easy, as I am genuinely impressed by the work [Company Name] is doing in [Industry/Field]. I hold a high level of respect for your team and the mission you uphold, and I would love to stay connected. Should there be an opportunity in the future that aligns more closely with my skills and aspirations, I would be excited to reconnect.
Thank you once again for this wonderful opportunity, and I look forward to crossing paths down the line.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
How to Politely Decline a Job Offer Over the Phone?
This one isn’t something that most people opt for.
However, declining a job offer over the phone adds a personal touch. It shows respect for the employer’s time and effort. It allows for immediate, clear communication and the opportunity to leave a positive impression through your tone of voice.
Generally, this method is particularly effective as it shows that you’re willing to engage directly and respectfully.
However, it requires careful preparation.
DON’T go with “Hi, So…”.
Keep it sporty. Be confident. Here’s what you need to do:
- Never Go Unprepared: Write down key points and practice what you’ll say. Don’t fumble. Not knowing what to say can lead to awkward pauses or unclear communication.
- Choose the Right Time: Call during business hours, unless asked otherwise. Ensure the hiring manager is available.
- Be Direct but Courteous: Keep it honest but concise. Make sure your tone conveys gratitude and respect; not indifference or haste.
- End on a Positive Note: Thank them again and wish the company success. Don’t forget to maintain a positive tone throughout the conversation.
After going through these tips, here’s a sample conversation that reflects the right approach for declining a job offer over the phone.:
You: “Hello, [Hiring Manager’s Name]. This is [Your Name]. Do you have a few minutes to chat?”
Hiring Manager: “Hi [Your Name]! Yes, of course. How can I help you?”
You: “Firstly, I want to thank you sincerely for offering me the position at [Company Name]. I appreciate all the time and consideration you and your team put into the interview process, and it truly means a lot.”
Hiring Manager: “Thank you, [Your Name]. We were impressed with your skills and would have loved to have you on board!”
You: “That means a lot to me, thank you. After careful consideration, I’ve decided to decline the offer at this time. This decision wasn’t easy, as I hold great respect for the work being done at [Company Name] and your team. However, I believe I need to pursue a role that aligns a bit closer with my career goals at this stage.”
Hiring Manager: “I understand, and I appreciate your honesty.”
You: “Thank you so much for understanding. I would genuinely like to keep in touch and hope our paths might cross again in the future. Please extend my best wishes to the team, and thank you once again for the opportunity.”
Hiring Manager: “Thank you, [Your Name]. We wish you the best, too.”
You: “Thanks so much. Take care, and have a great day!”
How to Decline a Job Offer Due to Salary?
Declining a job offer due to salary considerations is a DELICATE process that must be handled tactfully. This approach shows the employer that while you DO value their offer, your decision is based on practical and financial reasons.
And let’s be honest.
Everybody works for money.
But this transparency helps maintain a positive relationship.
Communicating salary concerns professionally underscores your value and clarity on what you seek in a role. What happens is, it leads you to grab better offers in the future. It also sends a signal to the employer that compensation IS a significant factor for you.
Best case scenario?
They reconsider their offer or present you with future packages!
You never know.
However, besides knowing how to decline a job offer because of salary, here are a few things you need to consider:
- Highlight Market Research: Do the research and mention it in your mail based on industry standards. This will justify your stance. Numbers always have an edge!
- Suggest Potential Future Revisions: Propose revisiting the offer if their budget increases later.
- Include Specific Figures: Do not hesitate. Clearly state the salary range you are seeking. Be transparent.
- Offer a Graceful Exit: Try asking for non-monetary compensation (if any) to show flexibility.
- Personalize the Reason: Express how the salary is impacting your personal or professional goals. This will add an emotional element.
Here’s an example that balances professionalism with transparency when declining a job offer due to salary, while leaving a positive impression and potentially keeping the door open for future adjustments:
Subject: Job Offer Discussion – [Your Name]
Email Body:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you very much for offering me the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. I’m genuinely grateful for the time and resources you and your team have invested throughout the process, and I was truly impressed by [Company Name’s] vision and commitment to [specific aspect of the company’s mission or values].
After careful consideration, I’ve decided to decline the offer. Although I am genuinely enthusiastic about the role, the current compensation package doesn’t fully align with my financial requirements based on my market research and career goals.
I would be thrilled to reconsider if there’s room to revisit the salary range in the future or if there are non-monetary benefits that might bridge the gap. Otherwise, I hope we can stay connected and explore future opportunities where there might be a better alignment.
Thank you once again, and please extend my best regards to the team. I look forward to staying in touch and wish [Company Name] continued success.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
How to Decline a Job Offer Due to Personal Reasons?
Declining a job offer due to personal reasons calls for a considerate and understanding approach.
The goal is to state your decision without delving into too much personal detail.
However, because it’s personal, handling this delicately becomes important.
Being transparent about personal reasons highlights your integrity and preserves your professional reputation. It shows that you prioritize your well-being and commitments, which usually can be respected by many prospective employers.
Hence, besides learning how to decline a job offer due to personal reasons, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Offer Future Availability and Interest: Try mentioning when you might be open to similar opportunities/roles when your situation changes.
- Keep It Concise: Avoid over-explaining your personal situation. Nobody would be interested.
- Provide a Positive Spin: Add that the decision is bringing your best self to work when the time is right.
Here’s an example that communicates a respectful decline due to personal reasons while maintaining a positive and professional tone:
Subject: Job Offer – [Your Name]
Email Body:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I want to thank you sincerely for offering me the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am truly honored by the opportunity and grateful for the time and effort invested by you and your team during the hiring process.
After much thought, I’ve decided to step back from this opportunity due to some personal matters that require my attention at this time. This decision wasn’t easy, as I hold great respect for the team and the inspiring work being done at [Company Name].
While I’m unable to join right now, I would love to stay in touch and perhaps explore future opportunities with [Company Name] when the timing aligns better on my end.
Thank you once again, and I wish you and the team continued success.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Knowing how to present your reasons for leaving a job can help you handle the situation with way more clarity and professionalism. Check out our guide on the KEY reasons for leaving a job and frame your response better!
How to Decline a Job Offer After Accepting it?
Now this one is particularly challenging and requires an exceptional degree of professionalism. This situation often arises due to unforeseen circumstances.
Yet again, communicating this effectively IS crucial.
Obviously, you would want to maintain goodwill with the employer.
Moreover, handling this situation well can help preserve your reputation and ensure you don’t burn bridges with the employer.
Hence, ALWAYS offer more context about why the change is necessary. It will show you are mature in handling complex decisions and that you respect the employer’s position; even when circumstances change.
Here are the next steps after learning how to nicely decline a job offer you already accepted.
- Suggest Alternatives: Try recommending other candidates who you think might be a good fit for the role.
- Apologize Sincerely: This might be tough but, go beyond a standard apology to show genuine regret.
- Offer Help Transitioning: This is the least you can do. Suggest to them the ways you can assist during the transition period to soften the impact.
- Express Future Collaboration: This is non-negotiable. Put forward your willingness to engage in other capacities with the company whenever possible. Keep the door OPEN.
Declining an offer after initially accepting it is a sensitive matter, but with honesty and professionalism, you can handle it gracefully.
Here’s how you might approach this challenging conversation:
Subject: Update on Accepted Position – [Your Name]
Email Body:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I want to begin by expressing my deepest appreciation for the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. Accepting this role was a decision I made with great excitement, which makes this message all the more difficult.
Due to unexpected personal circumstances, I am no longer able to proceed with my start date as planned. This was an incredibly hard decision to make, and I am truly sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you and your team.
If helpful, I would be more than willing to assist in any way possible during the transition period, whether through helping with the role’s handover or connecting you with potential candidates who may be an excellent fit. I am also hopeful that in the future, there might be an opportunity to reconnect with [Company Name] under different circumstances.
Thank you once again for your understanding, and please extend my apologies to the rest of the team. I have immense respect for [Company Name] and wish you all success moving forward.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
How to Decline a Job Offer But Leave the Door Open?
Declining a job offer while keeping the door open for future opportunities is hands down, a strategic move.
- It shows your respect for the employer and interest in the company.
- This strategy also ensures that you leave a positive impression and REMAIN a viable candidate for future roles.
- It also helps build a network of professional relationships. It shows that you value the employer’s offer, but are seeking the right fit.
Generally, this is again something that many hiring managers appreciate. So, here’s how to decline a job offer but keep the door open for future opportunities:
- Mention Specific Roles: Show interest in particular roles or departments that you want, for future consideration.
- Highlight Your Compatibility: Talk about how your skills perfectly align with the company’s needs, even if the current role isn’t a fit.
- Express Enthusiasm for the Company Culture: Try showing genuine excitement about the company’s culture and values. (even when you’re not going to be there!)
- Request a Follow-Up: Always try to stay in touch for updates on future openings or any company news.
- Personalized Thank You: Send a handwritten thank-you note in addition to your email. This is optional. However, it does leave a lasting impression!
By respectfully expressing your enthusiasm for the company and hinting at future possibilities, you can decline the offer while maintaining a positive relationship.
Here’s an example of how to do it effectively:
Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity – [Your Name]
Email Body:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you very much for offering me the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I am genuinely grateful for the time and effort you and your team dedicated to the interview process, and I truly enjoyed learning about [Company’s unique value or project].
After careful thought, I’ve decided to step back from this opportunity to seek a role that aligns more closely with my current career focus. However, I’m very impressed by the mission and culture at [Company Name], and I would love to stay connected for any future opportunities within [specific department or role of interest].
Please extend my thanks to the team. I hope our paths will cross down the line, as I would be thrilled to explore future ways to contribute to [Company Name].
Thank you once again, and wishing you continued success.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Pro tip: In case you’re declining due to job fit, try exploring roles that might be better suited for your personality. Here’s our guide on the BEST jobs for introverts!
Proven Templates For How To Properly Decline A Job Offer in 2024
For the ‘nth’ time, walking through the road to decline a job offer requires finesse and tact.
But, to help you with this, I have compiled a brief section of templates, which hopefully will fit different scenarios.
Although these samples may not be EXACTLY perfect as per your case, they will help you curate your own messages.
In case it DOES, just copy-paste, personalize, and you’re good to go.
Simple Job Offer Decline Email
Sometimes, the easiest things can seem troublesome and burdensome.
But, here’s how to gracefully decline a job offer with a straightforward and polite email:
Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am incredibly grateful for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title] and for the time and effort invested by you and your team throughout the interview process. The experience of meeting with your team and learning about the inspiring work at [Company Name] was truly rewarding.
After much consideration, I have decided to decline the offer, as I believe pursuing a different direction will best align with my current career goals. Please accept my sincere thanks for this opportunity and for your support during the hiring process. I hope we may have a chance to reconnect in the future under different circumstances.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Formal Job Offer Rejection Letter
In a professional environment, formality is key.
So, here’s how to kindly decline a job offer with a formal letter:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, Zip Code]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the offer extended to me for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I am genuinely honored by the confidence you’ve shown in my abilities and by the opportunity to be considered as part of such a reputable organization.
After a period of careful reflection, I must respectfully decline this offer, as I have decided to pursue another opportunity that more closely aligns with my current career trajectory and long-term professional aspirations. This was a difficult decision, as I have great respect for [Company Name] and its dedication to [mention any key values, mission, or goals]. I hope our paths may cross again in the future, and I would welcome the chance to stay connected.
Thank you once again for this opportunity, and please convey my gratitude to the rest of the team. I wish [Company Name] every success in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Detailed Explanation for Job Offer Rejection
Sometimes, you may need to provide more context. This template will help you offer a detailed and considerate explanation for your decision.
Here’s how to decline a job offer in detail:
Subject: Sincere Thanks for the Opportunity
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you very much for the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. The time you and your team dedicated to getting to know me and discussing the role is truly appreciated, and I was highly impressed by the dedication and vision of your team.
After careful consideration, I’ve decided to decline the offer at this time. While I am genuinely excited about the work [Company Name] is doing, I have decided to focus on a role that aligns more closely with my immediate career goals and personal aspirations. I want to emphasize how difficult this decision was, as I greatly respect the work and values of [Company Name]. I hope to remain in contact, as it would be an honor to explore potential opportunities with your team in the future.
Thank you again for your understanding and for the generous offer. I wish [Company Name] continued growth and success in the years ahead.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Withdrawing Acceptance of a Job Offer
Now, retracting an accepted job offer can be SO tricky.
However, there’s always a thoughtful way to handle this sensitive situation.
Check out the sample template on how to decline a job offer you already accepted:
Subject: Update on Accepted Position – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I want to begin by extending my deepest gratitude for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. After accepting this role with great enthusiasm, unexpected personal circumstances have arisen that require my full attention, making it impossible for me to proceed with the position as planned.
This decision was extremely difficult, as I highly value the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and am very impressed by the work and culture your team embodies. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and am more than willing to assist in any way possible to ease the transition, such as connecting you with other candidates who may be well-suited to this role.
Thank you for your understanding and patience. I am hopeful that in the future, we may have another opportunity to collaborate under more favorable circumstances.
Warmest regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Declining Due to Salary Concerns
Money matters are so DRAMATIC.
It can complicate decisions to great extents.
So, here’s how to politely decline a job offer because of salary. Try using this template to gracefully address your salary concerns.
Subject: Job Offer and Salary Discussion – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you so much for extending the offer for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am truly honored by the opportunity to potentially join your team and contribute to such a forward-thinking organization.
After reviewing the offer, I have decided to decline the position at this time due to the current salary and benefits package, which doesn’t fully align with my financial expectations based on industry standards and my long-term career goals. I want to emphasize how challenging this decision was, as I hold great respect for [Company Name] and admire the dedication your team brings to [mention any specific company goals or initiatives].
If there is any flexibility with the compensation package, I would be happy to revisit this conversation, as I remain highly interested in contributing to [Company Name]. Regardless, I hope to stay in touch, and I look forward to following [Company Name’s] future accomplishments.
Thank you once again for your understanding, and please do convey my gratitude to the rest of the hiring team.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Rejection Based on Benefits Package
Sometimes, the benefits just don’t add up.
Hence, declining the role seems entirely justified.
Take a look at the template below on how to decline a job offer due to benefits:
Subject: Thank You for the Offer – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. It was truly a pleasure meeting with you and learning more about the values and goals that drive [Company Name].
After thorough consideration, I’ve decided to decline the offer due to certain aspects of the benefits package that don’t fully align with my current needs and priorities. Please know that this decision was difficult, as I was genuinely impressed by the team and the positive work environment at [Company Name].
I would be delighted to stay in touch in the event that other roles arise in the future. I am very grateful for the opportunity and wish [Company Name] continued growth and success.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Personal Reasons for Job Offer Decline
Life happens.
There are so many things that would require your immediate attention over the job.
So, here’s how to decline a job offer due to family reasons or personal circumstances.
Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. Meeting with you and the team was a truly positive experience, and I hold the company in high regard.
Due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I have made the difficult decision to decline the offer at this time. This choice was not made lightly, and I regret any inconvenience it may cause. I would love to stay connected, as I hope that down the line, another opportunity might arise where we can collaborate.
Thank you once again for your support and for the confidence you placed in me. I wish [Company Name] every success and look forward to staying in touch.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Phone Call Script for Declining a Job Offer
As I mentioned earlier, a phone call can be more personal and impactful.
Here’s a courteous script on how to decline a job offer over the phone:
Introduction: “Hello, [Hiring Manager’s Name]. This is [Your Name]. I wanted to reach out personally to thank you for offering me the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Do you have a moment to chat?”
Gratitude and Explanation: “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and for all the time you and your team invested throughout the process. However, after much thought, I’ve decided to decline the offer due to [mention general reason, like ‘personal reasons’ or ‘current career priorities’ without getting too specific].”
Express Future Interest: “I want to emphasize how impressed I am with [Company Name] and your team. I would love to stay connected in the hope that we might have a chance to collaborate in the future.”
Closing: “Thank you again for this opportunity, and please extend my gratitude to the team. I wish [Company Name] all the best moving forward.”
Keeping the Door Open for Future Opportunities
Declining a job should NOT be about closing the door forever.
Here’s how to decline a job offer without burning bridges and leaving room for future opportunities.
Subject: Grateful for the Opportunity – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you so much for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. I genuinely appreciate the time and effort you and your team put into the interview process, and it was inspiring to learn about [Company Name’s mission or projects].
After careful thought, I’ve decided to decline this offer, as I believe a different direction aligns better with my current career goals. That said, I am very impressed by the work at [Company Name], and I hope to stay connected for future opportunities. If there’s ever a role within [specific department or area], I would be thrilled to explore the chance to work together.
Thank you again for your understanding, and I wish [Company Name] much success. Please do stay in touch!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Politely Turning Down a Job Offer
Declining with grace is an art.
This email template shows how to decline a job offer politely and professionally.
Subject: Thank You for the Offer – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I wanted to reach out to express my gratitude for the offer to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title]. I am genuinely honored by the confidence you and your team have shown in my abilities.
After much thought, I have decided to decline the offer, as I feel that another direction aligns better with my goals at this time. Please know that this decision was not made lightly, as I hold great respect for [Company Name] and your dedication to [mention any company goal or mission]. I hope our paths cross again in the future, as it would be a privilege to collaborate someday.
Thank you once again, and wishing you and your team the very best.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Example of Declining a Specific Job Role
Every role has its unique challenges.
Suppose you received an offer of a teaching position and you do not wish to pursue it. Here, you need to be quite specific and precise and learn how to professionally decline a job offer.
Check out the template listed below on how to decline a teaching job offer.
Subject: Thank You for the Teaching Opportunity – [Your Name]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you very much for offering me the teaching position at [School or Institution Name]. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and for the time you and the team took to discuss the role with me.
After careful consideration, I have decided to decline the offer as I believe my career goals are leading me in a different direction at this time. This decision was difficult, as I have great admiration for [School/Institution Name] and the dedication you bring to supporting student success.
I would welcome the chance to stay in touch and potentially explore other roles that may be a closer fit in the future. Thank you again for the offer and your understanding, and please accept my best wishes for a successful school year ahead.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
Wrapping It Up
For the last time, declining a job offer does not have to be a downer. Saying NO will definitely feel tough. In fact, it is.
However, all it requires is the right approach and the right words. You must know how to decline a job offer like a pro. After all, it is perfectly fine to prioritize your career goals. But, it is NOT fine to demean or offend the recruiter.
Eventually, you wouldn’t want to burn any bridges, would you?
Finally, found the job that is perfect for you?
No need to decline this one. Check our guide on how to accept a job offer with grace!
For more such valuable resources and career guidance, stay connected with PenChise.
